Dhanpal Fort in Belbari in neglected state

BY HARI PRASAD KOIRALA,Urlabari, Sept. 14: Dhanpalgadhi (Dhanpal Fort) located in Kaseni of Belbari Municipality-5, is listed among the top 100 tourist destinations by the Nepal Government. However, the fort remains neglected despite its historical significance and the government’s expenditure of nearly Rs. 90 million on revamping the site.

The fort spans over 35 bighas of land and carries historical significance. Manilal Bhagat, Chairman of the Dhanapal Fort Archaeological Historical Religious and Tourism Management Committee, said that three of the nine ponds created during King Dhanapal’s reign are still visible today. 

Every year on the 10th of Baisakh, the Tharu community worships at the Dhanapal Temple. Despite significant investment from the government, the fort requires further preservation. A large fair is organised on the temple premises on Siruwa Pauni, a major festival of the Tharu Community.

Chairman Bhagat said that ancestors used to say that a brass statue of King Dhanapal riding an elephant and nine bells were found inside the temple. The temple ruins suggest that the fort is approximately 1700-1800 years old. 

There is an intriguing tale about the fort. King Dhanapal’s daughter, Phool Devi, was renowned for her beauty. The king promised the hand of his daughter to anyone who could combat and defeat the king. Although Prince Allaharudal from India came to marry her, he failed. Subsequently, Allaharudal resorted to deceit, used a barber to cut off the king's head and sent soldiers to abduct Princess Phool Devi. Since then, the fort has been believed to be deserted. Even today, barbers avoid the area with knives or scissors.

The pond in the fort is home to various rare birds. Likewise, beautiful white and red lotus bloom in the pond adding to its beauty. The fort's complex has many records for archaeological studies. Locals have reported finding remains of wells, copper plates, inscriptions and ruins of the walls. 

Dilli Bahadur Katwal, Ward Chair of Belbari-5, said that Rs. 80 million had been spent so far. The construction of a wall around the 30 bighas of the jungle area has been completed, and three entrances have been made. However, despite being surrounded by settlements and protected for centuries, the fort area is now becoming unsafe. Doors of the community buildings have been broken, window panes are shattered, electrical wiring has been stolen, and interiors have been vandalised.

Kirateshwar Joshi Mission JV was awarded the contract for the upgradation of the fort for Rs. 80 million. 

The company was supposed to complete the work by May 27, 2021. However, after failing to complete the work on time, the contract was extended and the work was completed by mid-April 2024. 

The fort area includes six community buildings, temples, and a statue of King Dhanapal on an elephant, all enclosed by fencing.

 Dil Prasad Rai, the Mayor of Belbari Municipality, highlighted that while this is a major tourist centre, budget constraints have left many tasks unfinished. 

The municipality's resources are insufficient, and no additional budget has been provided by the federal or provincial governments. 

He mentioned that a local committee has been formed to oversee the preservation of the existing structures. However, Chairman Manilal Bhagat reports that the municipality has not even provided the two security guards requested by the local committee.